Dear Doc,
I read somewhere recently that you shouldn’t cream the bottom of your feet, or soak them in water because the soaking would make the bottom of the feet soft. Then I also saw don’t cream between the toes. So, which is it? And if between your toes are white and you can’t cream them, how is that treated? – Vincent Dear Vincent,
It is good to apply moisturiser to the bottom of your feet. The only scenario in which this should not be done is if the area is infected or ulcerated. In such a scenario, moisture tends to help bacteria grow and that is not wanted. However, for skin with no infection, moisture is good. Moisture helps sooth cracks and stops them from reoccurring. Cracks, if severe, can be a source of problems, especially in diabetics. In the Caribbean we tend to suffer from dry skin and are at risk for cracks and aggravation of certain skin conditions which tend to be relieved with moisture.
Now, to address your second point. Moisture is not recommended in between your toes if you are a diabetic or an athlete or in the average individual when leaving the shower.
You should dry in between your toes. Moisture between the toes makes you at risk for fungus what is commonly called “athletes’ foot.” This tends to be a problem in those physically active, not just athletes. Individuals who sweat profusely between their toes are recommended to keep that area dry, it tends to hold moisture and the damp, cool environment is the perfect recipe for fungus.
